Blog

Category: Industry News

In the recent years, the term “bitcoin” has become more prominent in business discussion. If you are technically savvy, you probably have an understanding of this cyber currency. If you are like most, you probably have no clue. Have any of your customers asked if they can pay by bitcoin? If not, that probably answers the question about whether your business should take them or not. The day is likely coming that your customers probably will ask about these payments so consider this blog to be a basic tutorial. What Is Bitcoin? Bitcoin is a virtual currency used to...Read more

We applaud many merchants for installing call recording devices that record your business phone calls. Despite the fact that you send your recordings to us as part of your dispute to a chargeback, they are not accepted by the card brands at this time for use in disputing a chargeback. However, they ARE admissible in a court of law. When you submit an audio file to us at Chosen Payments, we use it to help prepare your dispute or appeal. In fact, we listen to it over and over, pausing, taking notes about who says what in the call and...Read more

Credit card fees have become a cost of doing business in a cashless society. No one likes to pay for the costs associated with using credit cards, but the benefits of accepting credit cards or using them outweigh the alternative of carrying cash. Still, the million-dollar merchant question remains: Can I pass credit card fees on to my customers? There are both simple and complex answers to this question. Any merchant who accepts credit cards must abide by the contract agreements with card networks (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), which outlines what they can and cannot do. Today’s financial ecosystem...Read more

Most people are probably willing to overlook a mistake by a vendor or merchant if there is a sufficient apology and a sincere effort to right the wrong. This is something that all of us in the business of delivering service or products should keep in mind. We are all going to trip and fall someday. It is the grace and style in which we get up that determines the future business relationship after the fall. Many small to medium size business fall short on the recovery simply because they think small and they also think about how they will...Read more

American Express Company, also known as Amex, was founded in 1850. The company is best known for its charge cards, credit cards and traveler’s cheques. In 2016, Amex accounted for 22.9% of the total dollar volume of credit card transactions in the US with 112.8 million cards issued. In 1850, Amex began operations as an express mail business in Buffalo, NY. It was a joint merger of the express companies owned by Henry Wells, William Fargo and John Warren Butterfield. Wells and Fargo would later split off and form their own company, Wells Fargo. Amex grew its network by working...Read more

In 1966, a group of California banks formed the Interbank Card Association (ICA). With the help of New York’s Marine Midland Bank, now known as HSBC, United California Bank (later known as First Interstate Bank), Crocker National Bank and Bank of California (now known as Union Bank of California) joined with the ICA to create “Master Charge: The Interbank Card”. The card was given a significant boost in 1969, when First National City Bank joined and merged its own “Everything Card” with Master Charge. As a side note, First Interstate Bank was merged with Wells Fargo who would go on...Read more

* This is the first of four installments on the birth and development of the credit card industry as we know it today. Although Visa is widely thought of to be the first credit card, it is not. However, as the largest card brand in the world, our series begins with Visa. 1958 – Visa was born in Fresno, California by Bank of America. Initially, Bank of America sent 60,000 unsolicited credit cards. The original idea was the brainchild of the Customer Services Research Group, and its leader, Joseph P. Williams. Williams convinced senior executives in 1956 to let him...Read more

In a recent blog at the beginning of the month, we were talking about how much will a data breach costs you and why you need a data breach policy. These days this is a hot topic again as data breaches are on the rise. This time, a massive data breach happened to Facebook. News broke over the weekend that Cambridge Analytica, a research company, reportedly gained access to information about almost 50 million Facebook users. If this happened to Facebook, the chances of smaller companies to avoid one are very little. The reality is not if a data breach...Read more

You have probably heard the term, “Payment Gateway” many times. As merchant, you know that you need one and that you have one. Maybe you even know the name of your gateway such as Authorize.net or PayPro Flow. But, what exactly does the gateway do for you? If you want to process credit cards, then you need a payment gateway. A payment gateway is the merchant service that authorizes credit cards and other direct payments. Payment gateways enable customer payment transactions by transferring information between a payment portal and the front-end processors. Payment portals can include websites, mobile phones,...Read more

Equifax, the credit scoring company has just experienced the most expensive data breach in history. Now, if this happened to Equifax, Target and Chipotle, don’t think for a minute that it can’t happen to you. All of these companies have large IT departments who are tasked with monitoring how customer data is stored and making their computer servers as safe as possible from outside hacks. Yes, even with all those experts hired to protect them, someone managed to get into Equifax servers and steal credit card data and other personal data. That breach is estimated to cost them $275 million...Read more

Testimonials

"Thank you very much for taking the time to assist me with this (fraud) issue! Your help and assistance are greatly appreciated. We thank you for all you do our industry! We are so blessed to have you on our side."

Khider Ahmim - Mediterranean Limousine, Inc.

"Thank you for great customer service ... probably the best I have ever received on a call like this. Thank you for your friendliness. We are all set now."

Jessica Mathews - League of Dreams

"Thank you so much!! What responsive and professional service!! Everything I needed was taken care of in a matter of an hour!! Incredible service. Thank you.."

Dr. Adrienne Lara, MD - Oxnard OBGYN

"I can't stop saying this....but, thank you! I ran credit cards this weekend and Monday morning the money is in my account. It's amazing! I don't know how to thanks you guys. You work so hard and now I'm finally seeing more money in my bank account! My bills are getting paid on time again too. You gu"

Charles Kuritz - Westfield Limousine Service

"I wanted to thank you all, especially Talia, for "holding my hand" to set up & process transactions seamlessly during our off-site event. How wonderful to have a knowledgeable, patient human being to talk to! "

Maxine Lucas - Assistance League of San Fernando Valley

"Sending a huge thanks to Jim Luff for helping us come back to Chosen Payments. We are back with Chosen Payments as the service and the savings are clear!"

Abdou Louarti - Diamond Transportation

"Thanks so much Michael! It's wonderful to have a human to connect to in order to help figure this credit card stuff out and one who has our back!"

Tina Miller - Walkabout Outfitter

"I referred my client, 7 Artists Gallery to Chosen Payments. I helped her set up her terminal and worked with Loren. She was friendly, extremely patient and knowledgeable. The system is up and running with another satisfied Chosen Payments client! Congratulations on having a wonderful staff! "

Kristen Carroll - The LMC Group

"Chosen Payments got to my attention because they were referred to me and vetted by Gourmet Catalog. They’ve lowered my rate significantly and my money shows up in my account much faster. Instead of the faceless company I was working with, I now have a representative."

Ben Salmon - Kitchen a la mode

"I love the work that you and your Chosen Team have proven time and time again that you all are committed to our industry and your clients. You guys rock as our credit card processor!"

Nancy Vargas - DH2 Chauffeured Transportation

"After years of bouncing around I finally found the right processor for me. The staff at Chosen Payments actually care!"

Janet L - MACP

"Brad asked me to trust him so I did, and I must say I am saving more money than promised. I am glad I gave them a chance."

Hiroshi P - Cayman Rentals

"Great service and helping me grow my store, are the major reasons for signing up with you. So far so good and I like the I Phone deal!"

James P - Baskin Robins

"Chosen Payments has been aggressive in saving our Members money with their credit card processing capabilities and are a very active company in our Industry. We are excited to have them as a Preferred Partner who will add value to the National Limousine Association and our Members"

Gary Buffo - National Limousine Association

"In 27 years of business I only had 2 credit card processors. My final choice was to go with Chosen Payments. They stand behind what they say 100%. Oh yeah, saving money was also a smart business decision."

Arthur Messina - Create-A-Card, Inc.

"Chosen Payments has been our processor for the past 2 years. They have been active with our account from day one. Always looking to save our company money with new programs available to the industry. I have been in business for over 18 years and in this time I have never had a processor stay so acti"

Joe Magnano - CLI Worldwide Transportation

"As a new business owner and having so many things on my plate, credit card processing was definitely one that I was not looking forward to dealing with. However luckily I was introduced to Chosen Payments who made this process as painless as possible for a new business owner. Not only have they addr"

Jenna Meyers - Uniform Fashions

"I get calls 3 or 4 times per day from credit card processing companies trying to earn my business and never would I leave Michael Lepore and Chosen Payments. They have treated me better than any processor I had in the past and their company has a great presence in our industry. Not to mention they h"

Jason Barthel - South Bend Uniforms

"After working with URA's Processing consultant to design just the right program for URA members, I can honestly say that they are professional, committed to service and reliable. I'm convinced that using Chosen Payments will save every member the cost of their annual URA dues and more!"

Dixie Russell - Uniform Retailers Association (URA)

"Since working with Chosen Payments I've experienced their service, support and savings first hand, and that's why I'm happy to be able to recommend them to you as a cost-effective, reliable solution for your payment processing needs."

Karen - Back in Black Solutions

"We have been with Chosen Payments for over a year and can say that they deliver what they promise. They not only saved us close to $2800 but their support has been top notch. I would recommend speaking with Michael Lepore, our dedicated consultant and let him prove to you their level of commitment. "

Anne - Dr. Jeff Weltmer OD PA

"Their experience and dedication to the industry will greatly increase the value to our customers"

Jeff Duncan - GM of OOPG

"We have been using this company for all of our merchant services. I met one of their representatives at a GCLA meeting here in Los Angeles and the rest was history. Not only are they credible and reliable, I get the best rates anywhere. My account manager Adam Yaras, constantly strives to make sure "

Will Smith, CEO - ATLS WorldWide, LLC

"Nobody has ever taken care of my credit card processing like Chosen Payments. I slapped myself for not using them years ago. I am saving a TON of money!"

Suzy Paris - Paris Limousines - Oklahoma City

"When it came time to look at our account the relationship with Chosen Payments would work better as far as the fees, customer service, responsiveness and basically the whole thing. We like to know that we can speak to a live person and have someone to call and talk to and we get that with Chosen Pay"

Mike Katz - California Furniture Galleries

"Hello Lisa,
I have been working with Vanessa. I would like to let you know what an amazing job she did. I feel like she went above and beyond for us. Due to her help I am extremely happy with Chosen Payments. I can't state enough what a help she has been."

Markay Sheffler - Universal Limo

"I just wanted to say that the Chosen Payments team is awesome!
Thank you all for the great service!"

Moe Hosaini - Deluxe Limousine Houston, TX

"These guys provide 100% the best customer service in their industry and the rates are pretty darn good! Many perks to being affiliated with their company. Has proven to save us money year over year."

Alexander A. -

"As a business owner in today's market, receiving payment via debit or credit card is pivotal to success, growth, and convenience. I've been solicited for YEARS to set up a merchant account by telephone solicitors. I wasn't about to sign up with someone who just called me from reading my name/numbe"

Jon F. -

"I have been using this company for all my merchant services. Not only are they credible and reliable, I get the best rates in town. My account manager Jeff Brodsly, constantly strives to make sure we are taken care of and happy with their services. The staff at Chosen Payments are attentive and und"

Nicholas B. -

"I've wanted to get up to speed with these Iphone card swiper deals for a while now. My old company didn't have them and in order to get them I'd have to use a 3rd party that was going to charge me $75 a month. So i asked a friend that was already using them who their merchant service people were. "

Michael S. -

"These days most banking and credit card processors are so large and impersonal, it can be very frustrating to get anything done. Chosen Payments is the exception! They work with you one-on-one. I know my rep's name and the tech guys name and they recognize me when I call. Opening an account was easy"

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"Chosen Payments has proven to be a most professional, honest and customer-driven company. The process of changing to Chosen Payments was seamless and we are saving a lot of money. Jeff Brodsly is always available and a great advocate for our industry. I highly recommend Chosen Payments"

Internet Review From Client -

"Our experience with Jeff Brodsly and Sarah VanBeek has been very positive. They are a great team whose insight has saved our members money and our organization time and effort. Their creative solutions and incentives make our organization more attractive to potential members. We are proud of our rel"

"Thank you Chosen Payments for exceeding my expectations! This level of customer service is very rare these days and I appreciate it."

Rich C. -

"I have been using this company for all my merchant services. Not only are they credible and reliable, I get the best rates in town. The staff at Chosen Payments are attentive and understanding. I have contacted them several times with mundane questions, and as I would expect the staff there to get f"

Austin Heating & Air -

"I am very pleased with my service with Chosen Payments. I have used several other companies and by far, Chosen Payments is the best. In addition to having the lowest rates, they work with me to keep my rates low. Additionally, anytime I have a question,
I get a quick response. I will continue"

John S. -

" would like to say that Alexandria is one of the most professional vendors that I have business dealings with. She has gone above and beyond for my company and I. What separates Alexandria from her competition, is that she takes the extra step to make sure that her customers are 100% satisfied with "

Chad A, -

"Over many years I have utilized the services of different merchant services. Most recently I moved my account from Wells Fargo to Chosen Payments. The service I receive from my rep, Alexandria Scalesse is far and away better than any other company I've worked with. Costs in this business is very com"

Wallace H. -

"I couldn't be happier with the service and support we have received from Chosen Payments. Alexandria walked us through every step of the process and really made my life easy. Her work ethic and attention to detail is very impressive. Chosen Payments must also be a great place to work, because Alex i"

Timothy S. -

"While we were a bit hesitant to switch over from our old provider of the last 5 years (who we liked), Merchant Account Executive Rob Crowell at Chosen Payments made the transition absolutely painless and hassle-free. He's always available for questions and counsel, should we need him. It's been a se"

Paul D. -

"We have had a great experience with Chosen Payments and Johanna’s kind and friendly customer service. They provided us with excellent fee rates plus the process to switch over was very easy. I am happy to recommend her company to anyone!"

Pat R. -

"Just as we don't want our clients to not continue using our services we almost never change firms with which we are doing business as we value long term familiar relationships. However, almost on a fluke, based on a change in another business relationship, we accepted Chosen Payments offer to provid"

Bob B. -

"If you have a small company and need to take credit cards every nickel saved helps! This company offers several options making them the best choice for my type of business. They have more to offer than I have been able to use at this time but their customer service and contact is excellent. Looking "

Tom R. -

"Interestingly, Chosen Payments came knocking on my door by way of a cold call a few months ago. The rates sounded good and I kept listening. I'm glad I did. I've experienced nothing short of incredible customer service from my account manager, Rob. I'm extremely happy with my decision to have Chosen"

Internet Review From Client -

"I switched to Chosen Payments for my credit/debit card processing a few months ago and it was a great move for me and my company. With my previous processing company I had 9 deposits going into my account each day which made for a bit of a nightmare when it was time to balance my checking account ea"

Amber D. -

"I had everything explained to me and now I understand my account. I'm glad we can also save more of our money too."

Sylvia C. -

"Johanna was a pleasure to work with. She made the transfer from another company to Chosen Payments an ease. Their e-payments make it easier to track our transactions. I would highly recommend them to any company!"

"Just joined CP!!! Katie was very professional, personable and easy to talk to. I would recommend chosen payments for anyone looking for a merchant service. Thank you for the easy breezy experience!!!"

Ali Amis -

"Fantastic group to work with! My transition was flawless, and I'm now saving money! Thank you Chosen Paymrnts"

Wendy Kleefish -

"We are very pleased at the personal and professional service we have received as a new customer!"

Brandy Olie -

"Awesome people to work with. Best customer service there is."

Tony Mehdiof -

"Top notch service!! The whole chosen staff is dedicated to their clients and their satisfaction."

Tyler Paez -

"Steve Walsh is the absolute best Account Executive on earth. And Jeff is and exceptional business man that will do you right always!"

Yvonne Silva -

"The customer service is outstanding and I can always count on Michael Lepore to check in on our office and provide great solutions to our needs."

Anne Alexander -

"Great company......fantastic service!!"

Paul Thompson -

"World class products, solutions, and support. #1 in the industry."

Jeff Hodlmair -

"They are the best"

Tom Soliman -

"Awesome resource for business!"

Monkeybizness Olathe -

"These guys provide 100% the best customer service in their industry and the rates are pretty darn good! Many perks to being affiliated with their company. Has proven to save us money year over year."

Alexander A. -

Contacting Us

Have questions? Give us a ring or fill out the quick contact form and a Chosen Payments representative will be happy to assist.